Starke County Highway Department Highway Superintendent Rik Ritzler anticipates a sharp reduction in state funds in the next three months.
He told the Starke County Commissioners on Monday that the department experienced a three percent drop in funding in May compared to 2019 figures, but the real effect of COVID-19 with the governor’s stay-at-home order is still on its way. The county benefits from the gas tax and the loss of that revenue will be felt in the coming months. Ritzler noted that the reduction in travel began in March so June distributions may show a steep drop in funds. He said a 40 percent reduction in Motor Vehicle Highway receipts can be expected for the next three months.
Ritzler said the department is prepared for it and can handle it.
He commented that traffic is now back up to the regular levels prior to the COVID-19 crisis.
Ritzler added that he submitted the budget for 2021 to Auditor Rachel Oesterreich where nearly six percent was cut which amounts to about $221,000.
